Search results for ""spck""

Some people long to find it, others long to escape it. But, whether we welcome or dread it, solitude is something we all experience in different forms at different points in our lives After enduring nearly five years of solitary confinement, in cruel and terrifying conditions, Terry Waite discovered that he was drawn to find out more about the power of solitude in the lives of other people. The result is this haunting book, in which he recalls his encounters with people who have experienced some very different ways of being solitary: among them the peaceful solitude of remote and beautiful places; the unsought and often unnoticed solitude of lonely people living in the midst of busy cities; the deceptive solitude of those living in the twilight world of espionage; the enforced solitude of the convict and the prisoner of war; and, finally, the inescapable solitude of those who are drawing near to death. Through all these encounters, and through the memories and reflections they trigger in the author's mind, we see how solitude shapes the human soul - and how it can be a force for good in our own lives, if we can only learn to use it well.

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Are the world’s major spiritual traditions sources of greater discord than harmony? Or are conflicts widely blamed on faith differences fundamentally social and political? In this succinct but richly reflective book, Rupert Shortt offers even-handed guidance on one of the most disputed questions of our time. Among much else he sheds light on the contrast between good and bad religion, and on why the distinction is of urgent relevance in an era increasingly described as post-secular.

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"A biography of St Paul by his greatest living interpreter: it is a dream come true." Tom Holland This compelling reconstruction of the life and thought of St Paul paints a vivid picture of the Roman world in which he preached his revolutionary message. It explains the significance of Paul's lasting impact on both the Church and the world. Elegantly written by arguably the most influential Pauline scholar in the world today - Paul a Biography is Tom Wright at his very best. This gripping historical life story will appeal to both believers and historians, painting a picture that provides insight and new understanding of both the man Paul and the world in which he lived.

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Join Sister Wendy on a journey through Lent, and discover the timeless wisdom to be found in some of the world's greatest paintings. Illustrated in full colour with over forty famous and lesser-known masterpieces of Western art, this beautiful book will lead you into a deeply prayerful response to all that these paintings convey to the discerning eye. From the Hokusai's Great Wave to Rembrandt's The Return of the Prodigal Son, these reflections draw from the emotions and spiritual truths behind the painting to give you lessons that will stay with you a lifetime. Each of the days is based around a different theme. From joy to tranquility to courage to sacrifice - the messages from The Art of Lent are short meditations that are designed to leave you with questions of your own to think about, rather than a compendium of conceptions to espouse in certain occasions. 'For those who want to appreciate the spirituality behind some of the world’s greatest works of art, this book will be hugely inspiring - not only during Lent but at any time of the year.' Dr Janina Ramirez, art historian and broadcaster

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How do you help an 8-12-year-old to get to grips with prayer for themselves? Welcome to the Prayer Experiment Notebook. The book includes 14 interactive 'prayer experiments' for children to try out, including: - Lego Bible modelling - Minecraft church - Bubble wrap worry prayers - Play dough prayers - Rough times sandpaper prayers - Prayer types chatterboxes - Bedhead prayer posters - Prayer Den - God is great collage - Thank you jar - Prayer Tree - Praying with your body - Contemplation bottles There is also a 'bonus' section of prayer games and activities to play with a friend, at home or in a church group, plus comments from other 'prayer experimenters' and space to write your own reflections.

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‘Hope is not the product of opinion or argument . . . There has to be something else – an impetus to act, a vision, something that fires our imagination.’ At a time when many feel defeated by the world’s problems, Vincent Nichols reminds us why we need to hold on to hope – and how we can offer genuine hope to those who need it most. With questions for reflection at the end of each chapter, this stirring book will encourage people of all faith backgrounds to come together and work towards a better future for all.

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The Bible holds huge religious, historical and cultural weight, but it can be daunting to approach it with no idea of where to begin, or how to read it. Here enters The Bare Bible, the perfect introductory guide to the Bible. Written with humour and a friendly, accessible tone, author Peter Graystone assumes no prior knowledge from his readers and cheerily sets out on a lively discussion of all the Bible is and isn't: the various genres found within its pages, the history of how these various books came to be known as the Bible and - most importantly - why, even after all these years, its words are still relevant to us today.

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In this motivational and highly practical book, Timothy Keller shows how caring for those in need is the duty of every believer – as fundamental to Christian living as evangelism, discipleship and worship. But he doesn’t stop there. He sets out an array of tried-and-tested measures that will encourage and equip Christians of all persuasions to become more committed and more effective in carrying out this vital ministry. As well as a new foreword by John Sentamu, each chapter of the book ends with group discussion questions to help Churches and groups better realise their calling, and work through what to do about it. Ministries of Mercy will equip you to meet the needs of others, to live and love by example, and be inspire others to do the same. It's a resource for reaching out, and a calling card for caring

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How would you run the Church? Many of us can point to things that we would like to change to make the Church more effective in its mission. But we are probably not used to making real-life decisions about how to improve large organizations. Here, Peter Kerridge of Premier Christian Communications Ltd asks eight highly successful entrepreneurs from different Christian traditions how they would set about running the Church. They include the founder of Mumsnet, Carrie Longton, and the billionaire founder of Christian Vision, Lord Bob Edmiston. These dynamic interviews draw out a fascinating range of ideas with the potential to change our churches for ever. ‘A fund of wisdom to learn from and enjoy.’ The Revd Dr Lord Leslie Griffiths

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This beautifully written book aims to increase our love for the world through reflecting on what we have discovered about it, and using this as a basis for further meditation and spiritual enrichment. It opens by looking at the beginning of the universe and the mystery of being, then moves on to our world, its atmosphere, the miracle of water and things we often take for granted but are essential to our health and happiness. Finally, it focuses on our relationship to the earth. Each section offers a short introduction, based on scientific discovery, a meditation, and an exercise in awareness and sensitivity.

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Bursting with life and colour, this story follows two adorable little angels who discover the big story of Easter in an amazing way. 'Have you heard . . .?' 'Did you know . . .?' 'Could it be true . . .?' 'Surely, no!' Something was happening in heaven. Alfie and Alia, two of the smallest angels, listened carefully. What were the big angels whispering about? Alia made a plan. 'Let's fly down to Earth and find out!' Join Alfie and Alia as they discover the Easter story, and meet many furry friends along the way!

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Just out of university, Charles Guilhamon and his friend Gabriel de Lépinau decide to take a year out to tour the world by bike. With a budget of a few euros a day, their travels bring them out of their comfort zone and into contact with people living in isolated or persecuted Christian communities in Syria, Iraq, India, China (Tibet), Thailand, the Amazon (Brazil), Senegal and Algeria. With a delightfully ironic sense of humour, Guilhamon’s vivid storytelling, intelligent analysis and authentic testimonies make for a hugely enjoyable read. In the best tradition of the travelogue, this is a true story well told. Cycling Out of the Comfort Zone concludes with an Afterword on recent developments in Syria and Iraq.

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Part One: The History (What do we know?) This brief historical introduction to William Tyndale explores the social, political and religious factors that formed the original context of his life and writings, and considers how those factors affected the way he was initially received. What was his impact on the world at the time and what were the key ideas and values connected with him? Part Two: The Legacy (Why does it matter?) This second part explores the intellectual and cultural `afterlife' of William Tyndale, and considers the ways in which his impact has lasted and been developed in different contexts by later generations. Why is he still considered important today? In what ways is his legacy contested or resisted? And what aspects of his legacy are likely to continue to influence the world in the future? The book has a brief chronology at the front plus a glossary of key terms and a list of further reading at the back.

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Julian of Norwich, the famous fourteenth-century anchoress, was seriously ill and preparing for death when she received a series of 16 visions of the passion of Christ. As a result of these visions, she dedicated the rest of her life to solitary prayer, and wrote down the content of the visions, which became the first book in English known to have been written by a woman. The first vision includes her famous meditation on the hazelnut, which for her becomes an image of God’s love because God made it, loves it and keeps it. ‘The most original and revolutionary reading of Christ’s gospel since that of St Paul.’ (A. N. Wilson, from the Introduction)

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‘The Peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and the love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.’ The Book of Common Prayer, with local variations, is still used in churches inside and outside the Anglican Communion in over 50 countries and in over 150 languages. The Rise and Fall of the Incomparable Liturgy is the first study to trace the evolution and reception of the BCP, from the Elizabethan settlement of 1559 to the Royal Commission report of 1906, when work on a new prayer book was begun. Written by a world authority, here is an illuminating and highly readable account of the ascent and decline of a world classic, which still informs our common language as well as much of the great literature of the past four centuries. It will appeal not only to students of liturgy but also to general readers interested in history, literature, theology and cultural studies.

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The Rule of St Benedict, written for monks in the sixth century, continues to hold an extraordinary appeal to people in our day. It offers a balanced approach to seeking God and integrating prayer, work and relationships in a way that is more essential than ever in our stress-riven society. For St Benedict, the whole of life has a Lenten character, that is, it should be driven by the power of Easter which permeates every aspect of the day with the transforming power of Christ's resurrection. The book aims to help readers engage directly with The Rule of St Benedict. The essential argument is that the Rule offers a way of accessing the transforming power of grace by following the Gospel in everyday life, and so is potentially a blessing for every Christian. While the centrality of Easter in the Rule makes the book ideal as a Lent book, it also means that The Way of Benedict can serve as a guide to the wisdom of the Rule throughout the year. While not a commentary on the Rule, the book follows the shape of the Rule in the belief that this is integral to St Benedict's vision of holistic living.

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A gem of a book.' Graham Tomlin, Bishop of Kensington Many of our everyday encounters in the world are touched by the divine, if we were only aware of it. We may find it impossible to miss God in the great interruptions of human existence, but God often finds a humbler dwelling-place . . . Donna Lazenby was in a packed underground carriage when it was taken siege by a group of musicians ripe to start a ceilidh. The eruption into dull passivity of joy seemed a herald of the Kingdom of God. And so she began to write a series of reflections, some prosaic, others more poetic in tone, that open up ways of seeing light in darkness; love in places of desolation; in-breaking life when all seems tired and old. But the coming of this Kingdom is also revealed in protest, in the world’s cry against a pervasive sense of alienation, while an allegedly ‘secular’ culture steals and presents the claims of the Gospel as its own. And so, Divine Sparks calls us to be prophets: visionaries able to discern and proclaim God’s incoming Kingdom, as it arrives by day – and night. Praise for the author’s A Mystical Theology (Bloomsbury, 2014): ‘[Written] with elegance and originality’ Catherine Pickstock, Professor of Metaphysics and Poetics, University of Cambridge

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In the second book in the Young Joseph series, Joseph's brothers grow more and more jealous of their favoured brother. They come up with a cunning plan to take Joseph down a peg or two by throwing him in a well to give him a fright. Eventually they sell him to passing slave traders but that's not the end of his story!

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'Bring us, Lord our God, at our last awakening, into the house and gate of heaven...' John Donne's prayer speaks of the hope and promise of a life with God that embraces us beyond death as well as during our time on earth. However, people of faith are not exempt from fears, fantasies and speculation, nor from the normal sequence of grief reactions that afflict bereaved human beings. Poetry, whether or not it is consciously religious, can help. In this selection of poems and thoughtful commentaries, Janet Morley offers an enriching approach to a subject we might prefer to avoid contemplating - our ordinary mortality. Here you will find the work of Dylan Thomas, Gillian Clarke, Philip Larkin, U. A. Fanthorpe, Seamus Heaney, Ann Griffiths, Jane Kenyon, Anne Stevenson, A. K. Ramanujan, Richard Baxter, George Herbert, Roger McGough and many more. Ranging in tone from joyful and ecstatic to gentle, ironic, despairing and even hilarious, these writers help us to look at death, accompany the dying, celebrate those who have died, and articulate our hope about what lies beyond. As a result, we have an opportunity to experience the whole range of human emotions about what it means to live, to love and to be loved.

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The complete and unedited edition of Thomas Merton's famous autobiography, one of the greatest works of spiritual pilgrimage ever written. Travelling in his early years with his artist father in the United States, France and England, Thomas Merton prided himself on his worldly accomplishments. His year at Clare College, Cambridge, was indulgent, and although Columbia University to which he went next suited his temperament better, it did nothing to assuage his restlessness. Gradually Merton recognized his need for faith and became a Catholic. With his baptism he began entertaining thoughts of monasticism but his desire to enter the priesthood in a Franciscan monastery came to nothing, and he remained a lay teaching member of the order for some time. However, when he was twenty-seven he made a retreat to a Trappist monastery in Kentucky. This momentous experience convinced him that the silence of the Cistercian Order was what he craved. The Seven Storey Mountain tells the story of Merton's search for faith and peace in a world which first fascinated and then appalled him. It is written with the profound insight of a man who has seen himself clearly. ‘The Seven Storey Mountain is a book one reads with a pencil so as to make it one’s own.’ Graham Greene ‘A remarkable book, a classic of its kind, written in a vivid, rich and alert style which ranges from crisp vernacular to passionate eloquence, full of picturesque incident and passing at times into religious ecstasy.’ The Times Literary Supplement ‘A book which may well prove to be of permanent interest in the history of religious experience.’ Evelyn Waugh

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This introduction to the interpretation of the Psalms encourages in-depth study of the text and genuine grappling with the historical, literary and theological questions that it poses. It draws on a range of methodological approaches as complementary rather than mutually exclusive ways of understanding the text. It also reflects the growing scholarly attention to the reception history of the Psalms, increasingly viewed as a vital aspect of interpretation rather than an optional extra. ‘This introduction to the Psalms, by a scholar who has been studying them and praying them for decades, amply demonstrates their potential to feed our worship and revolutionize the way we pray.’ John Goldingay, Professor Emeritus of Old Testament, Fuller Theological Seminar, California ‘The best introduction to the Psalms that I have ever seen.’ J. Clinton McCann Jr., Evangelical Professor of Biblical Interpretation, Eden Theological Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri ‘A valuable resource for ministry students and any Christian who wants to go deeper with the Psalms.’ Jenni Williams, Vicar of St Matthew with St Luke, and former Tutor in Old Testament at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford ‘An eminently readable introduction.’ Sue Gillingham, Professor of the Hebrew Bible, University of Oxford

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A book of practical help and encouragement for anyone looking for a new start in their spiritual journey, or wanting to take that journey further for the first time.

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Stress is now a huge factor in modern living, with one-third of British workers likely to suffer from it some stage in their careers. Christians are not immune. Indeed it is arguable that they are even more vulnerable to overstress or burnout than secular people because of behavioural expectations relating to God, Church, society, work and the prevailing culture. In order to address these particularities, each short chapter in this engaging book responds to a commonly asked question or typical statement, such as ‘How can I tell if I’m overstressed?’; ‘I’m so disillusioned and swamped at work. I don’t know how long I can carry on.’; ‘I’m not managing time for God as I used to.’ etc. The authors then offer basic information, followed by material for meditation or reflection; encouragement of some sort, and finally something for the reader to work on.

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"It is a real pleasure to find what many readers are always on the lookout for: a new and original writer of a rattling good story told with intelligence and depth." The Tablet Parson's daughter Mara Johns arrives as a postgraduate student at a great northern cathedral city. Antagonistic to the church and fiercely independent, she repels all friendly overtures and seeks spiritual answers in her theological research. But when her past involvement in an extreme sect resurfaces, she finds her quest won't stay academic. Nor can she hold out against her persistent would-be friends. Gradually she unbends and laughs with Maddy and May; locks horns with the insufferable 'polecat' - and finds herself torn between the attentions of two suitors. But they are both ordinands, and she's vowed she'll never marry a vicar. When her carefully controlled world falls apart, it is these new friends she must turn to if she wants to survive.

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This new single-author collection features 45 assemblies from the ever-popular and well-known Revd Alan M. Barker. His assemblies are downloaded thousands of times a year and he is the most searched for author on Assemblies.org. This new volume is now in an updated, easy-to-use format. Inside the content is clearly laid out with icons indicating each assembly's aim, preparation and materials needed, step-by-step instructions for presenting the assembly, reflections, and a song or suggested piece of music. The content covers all major Christian festivals including assemblies for more difficult festivals to present to children such as Ascension Day.

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Tom Wright's eye-opening comments on these letters are combined, passage by passage, with his new translation of the Bible text. Making use of his true scholar's understanding, yet writing in an approachable and anecdotal style, Wright captures the tension and excitement of the time as the letters seek to assert Paul's authority and his teaching against other influences. Each short passage is followed by a highly readable discussion, with background information, useful interpretation and explanation, and thoughts as to how it can be relevant to our lives today. No knowledge of technical jargon is required. The series is suitable for personal or group use. The format makes it appropriate also for daily study.

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For Theology Students, Scholars and Professors. Are you looking to understand the complexity of peace keeping, and the vital role of praying for those in authority? After reading you'll have a greater understanding of the complexity of peace keeping. The Dove, the Fig Leaf and the Sword' is a fascinating critique of the Church's varying response to the use of force over the centuries that gives Christians a greater understanding of the complexity of peace keeping, and stresses the vital role of praying for those in authority. Alan Billings is an Anglican priest and a former Director of the Centre for Ethics and Religion at Lancaster University. In recent years he has taught the ethics of war to chaplains to the forces at the UK Defence Academy, Amport, and on military bases in England and Germany. ' The Dove, the Fig Leaf and the Sword' is a highly informative, well-researched and systematic approach to historically changing Christian views around war and peace is an excellent overview that does not flinch from also facing the contentious contemporary context. Billings believes Christianity must engage both ethically and realistically if its message is going to have any relevance in the arena of war and the spectrum of other military operational options with those who bear the weight of making those life-changing and responsible choices.

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A renowned Bible scholar, Tom Wright, opens up the message and meaning of the gospel of Matthew for today's readers. He guides the reader through the world of the New Testament. Breaking down the gospel of Matthew into brief, easy-to-study segments, Wright shows how the message of this ancient book speaks powerfully to the spiritual longings of contemporary readers. New Christians and longtime followers of Jesus alike will find inspiration and practical wisdom for their journey within these pages. Making use of his true scholar's understanding, yet writing in an approachable and anecdotal style, Wright captures the immediacy of Matthew's gospel in a way few writers have. Tom Wright's own translation of the Gospel of Matthew is combined, section by section, with useful explanation and interpretation of the passage, as well as thoughts as to how it can be relevant to our lives today.The format makes it appropriate also for daily study.

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Tom Wright's guide to Luke, which includes a wealth of information and background detail, provides real insights for our understanding of the story of Jesus and its implications for the reader. His clear style is accessible to new readers of the Bible, as well as to those who are further on. His exciting new translation brings to life, passage by passage, the immediacy and drama of Luke's gospel. Tom Wright has undertaken a tremendous task: to provide guides to all the books of the New Testament, and to include in them his own translation of the entire text. Each short passage is followed by a highly readable discussion with background information, useful explanations and suggestions, and thoughts as to how the text can be relevant to our lives today. A glossary is included at the back of the book. The series is suitable for group study, personal study, or daily devotions.

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For many Jewish Christians of the first century, living in the light of the gospel was challenging. On accepting Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, they were regarded by still-sceptical family, friends and neighbours as dangerous, misguided and even disloyal to Jewish culture and all that God had said before. The letter to the Hebrews was written to show that believers shouldn't look back when God is pointing them forwards. The early Church was encouraged to press on eagerly in faith, trusting and hoping unflaggingly for the fulfilment of God's promises. Tom Wright has completed a tremendous task: to provide comprehensive guides to all the books of the New Testament, and to furnish them with his own fresh translation of the entire text. Each short passage is followed by a highly readable commentary with helpful background information. The format makes it appropriate also for daily study.

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David Martin's vivid, elegant and absorbing prose offers surprising and often moving insights into his life, times and intellectual development. As Professor Emeritus of Sociology at the LSE he gives a compelling behind-the-scenes account of the protests during the 1960s and 1970s. He also recounts the ups and downs of his leading role in championing the King James Bible and the Prayer Book in the 1980's. It will be a must read for the many people, both within and without the church, who have been influenced by his seminal writings.

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The difference between going into the ministry at the age of 20 or 30, rather than 40 or 50, might simply be that someone asked sooner rather than later, 'Have you thought of being ordained' Especially when we are young, it is easy to feel that we might be inadequate for the job, but the Bible is encouragingly littered with stories of individuals who didn't feel up to what God called them to be! Hearing the Call stresses that our very humanness, our sense of inadequacy, can be a gift in ministry and allow God's grace to flow. Gordon Mursell's wise reflections on several relevant biblical passages wonderfully complement Jonathan Lawson's vivid recounting of his wide experience of young vocations. He illustrates this with real-life stories from young people he has counselled and encouraged.

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In trying to understand the relationship of the British people to religion - specifically Christianity - we tend to say that people: believe - or do not; attend - or do not. The argument of Lost Church is that the majority of people do not really fit either of these categories. Rather, they 'belong' - in the sense that they feel some affinity to Christianity and the Church; they are not hostile to its ministers; they do not find churches alien places to be, and they turn to the Church and its clergy on specific occasions. But they do not want to attend regularly and their beliefs may be incoherent or even nonexistent, and often flicker on and off like a badly wired lamp. This absorbing and encouraging volume is a call to lay Christians and clergy to take stock of what is happening and to recover an understanding of the Church that will not alienate those who 'belong' but rather enable ministry to them to continue.

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The guides in this series by Tom Wright can be used on their own or alongside his New Testament for Everyone commentaries. They are designed to help you understand the Bible in fresh ways under the guidance of one of the world's leading New Testament scholars.

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This helpful and collection of Tom Wright's insights into the meaning and practice of prayer, gives you all the accessible wisdom of the various New Testament prayers explored in his individual 'For Everyone' commentaries. This convenient yet compact collection of explorations includes his own thoughtful translations and meditations on all the major prayers of the New Testament. Reasons to add 'New Testament Prayers for Everyone' to your collection: - Get Tom Wrights reliable, readable insights - Benefit from his own translation from the original manuscripts - Understand the key teachings of New Testament writers - Find how the hopes and fears of the early Church compare to today's - Make yourself an expert in the earliest written Christian prayers - Find the through line from the apostles to your prayers today Tom Wright on 'The Lord's Prayer': "References to Jesus' own practice of private prayer are scattered throughout the Gospels and clearly reflect an awareness on the part of his first followers that this kind of private prayer - not simply formulaic petitions, but wrestling with God over real issues and questions - formed the undercurrent of his life and public work. The prayer that Jesus gave his followers embodies his own prayer life and his wider kingdom ministry in every clause." There are many books about prayer, but this is the first by Tom Wright to cover all the key teachings and examples to be found in the New Testament.

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This Lent book offers imaginative reflections on Christ's crucifixion. Each of the seven chapters is focused on a different key character, who describes his or her experience of the Passion. The nails used to crucify Christ are used as a jumping off point for their reflections. Each character considers the questions, 'who killed Christ' and 'who was responsible?' Each chapter includes a Biblical passage, a meditative hymn, a reflection from the point of view of the character, and a short prayer. The book finishes with practical suggestions on how the book can be used as a Lent study course. It is ideal for individual reflection or group study, and can also readily be adapted for use as a Good Friday liturgy.

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Jane William's widely read and much enjoyed Church Times columns brought together in one volume for the first time. In Lectionary Reflections, Jane Williams aims to help us engage with the Sunday readings in the Revised Common Lectionary for Years A, B & C. Each section gives the lectionary references and provides a thought-provoking starting point for exploring the readings, drawing out points of connection between them. Intelligently written and inspiring, Lectionary Reflections will prove invaluable in preparation for Sunday worship or for regular Bible study throughout the year. It will be of use to both groups and individuals for opening up the Bible and applying its rich teaching and stories.

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As with French, German or Spanish, learning the basic vocabulary of Christianity is a vital first step in understanding what it means and how it works. We think of words like 'faith', 'forgiveness', 'salvation', 'sin' and 'heaven'. But how can we be sure that we understand them correctly? Over the centuries all sorts of different meanings have grown up around these words, and sometimes those meanings can obscure or distort the way the words were originally used in the Bible. In Speaking Christian, Marcus Borg takes some of the key words in the Christian dictionary and exposes the negative and unhelpful connotations they still carry today. At the same time, he goes back to the Bible and unpacks their meaning in a way that is both more faithful to the teaching of Jesus and more relevant to his followers today.

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This classic book asks what it is to know Jesus. It will enable thinking Christians to ask new questions about their faith, their reading of the New Testament, and the theology of redemption.

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In this magisterial study, Keith Warrington paints a rounded picture of Jesus as a miracle worker by exploring each of the miracles in the Gospels in their literary and historical setting. He demonstrate that, while the miracles are historically authentic, there are several reasons for their presence in the Gospels other than simply to identify Jesus as a miracle worker. They are also intended to function as vehicles of teaching: expressing aspects of the mission and person of Jesus, providing lessons for his would-be disciples and adding theological value for each Gospel’s original audience.

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The book provides a clear account of the sacraments of the Christian Church and of the general idea of sacramentality. It will reach out to a wide audience and present solid academic theology in an accessible and popular manner. The approach is distinctively Anglican, Thomist and on the conservative side of 'liberal catholic'.

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There are big questions in life that most of us come up against at some stage or other. They may look something like this: Does my life have a point? Do things really have to change? Am I happy enough? Will I ever be 'in' with the 'in crowd'? Where on earth is home? It's up to us to choose how we deal with these issues. We can push them away by letting ourselves become so busy and distracted that we drown them out. Or we can face them full on, and start exploring the deepest possibilities of our lives. The latter is what Does My Soul Look Big in This? aims to help us do. Warm and accessible, it's a book for a generation unafraid to be vulnerable; for people longing for a spirituality that is relevant and real.

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The ‘Ephesians: For Everyone Bible Study Guide’ by renowned Christian author and professor, Tom Wright, is an excellent starting point for new Christians, those studying or Bible study groups to explore and understand more on the book of Ephesians. As part of the ‘For Everyone Bible Study Guides’ series, this title by Tom Wright offers a range of thought-provoking study questions and accessible introductory material. The guides in this series can be used on their own or alongside Tom Wright’s engaging New Testament for Everyone commentaries. ’For Everyone Bible Study Guides’ are designed to help you understand the Bible in fresh ways under the guidance of one of the world's leading New Testament scholars, Tom Wright. Thoughtful questions, prayer suggestions, and useful background and cultural information all guide you into a deeper understanding of the Christian story and the Christian life. When you have a story at the back of your mind, have you noticed how it sometimes keeps coming up, even if you are talking about something else? Throughout his exhortation, prayers and instructions for living in the letter to the Ephesians, Paul cannot contain his joy and amazement at God's plan to save us in Jesus the Messiah. These eleven studies from Tom Wright within ‘Ephesians: For Everyone Bible Study Guide’ help us to see the significance of our role in God's grand narrative, and encourage us to live fully as people who are lavishly loved by God. This book on Ephesians is the perfect introduction to the topic, designed to not only teach but also question the reader and give thoughtful insight.

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Instead of the seven words that Jesus spoke from the cross, Tom Wright invites you to consider seven words that people spoke to the cross - people like Mary and the Roman centurion, who witnessed the crucifixion, and Pontius Pilate, who helped to instigate it. The result is a powerful sequence of meditations that will move you to reassess your own response to Jesus' death, his resurrection, and the continuing influence of his Spirit on those who follow him today.

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Using personal anecdote, a witty and lively style, and drawing on his considerable theological knowledge, John Goldingay takes us deep into the unfolding story of the Old Testament.

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Using personal anecdote, a witty and lively style, and drawing on his considerable theological knowledge, John Goldingay takes us deep into the unfolding story of the Old Testament.Companion to Psalms for Everyone,volume 1.

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For many years, spiritual direction was regarded as an elitist activity, designed for the benefit of the clergy and a few specially devout laity. This book presents an alternative to that view, arguing that spiritual direction is a benefit which every Christian can enjoy. But if that is so, where will we find all the competent spiritual guides to meet this need? Gordon Jeff's answer is that in every congregation there are people - women and men, lay and ordained - who possess a latent gift for spiritual direction. To develop that gift, courses are now available in many parts of the country, but the Anglican Diocese of Southwark was the first in the field, and this book outlines methods which have proved their worth over nearly 25 years, and which have been widely adopted across the UK and beyond. This wise, practical handbook will be appreciated by all who would like to know how the skills of spiritual direction may be applied in their own congregation. It will also prove helpful as a concise introduction to the nature and purpose of direction, and how it relates to other forms of pastoral care and counselling.

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The Didache is one of the earliest Christian writings, earlier than most of the documents that make up the New Testament. It provides practical instructions on how a Christian community should function, and offers unique insights into the way the earliest Christians lived and worshipped. In this highly readable introduction, Thomas O'Loughlin tells the intriguing story of the Didache, from its discovery in the late nineteenth century to the present. He then provides an illuminating commentary on the entire text, highlighting areas of special interest to Christians today, and ends with a fresh translation of the text itself.

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